Registration open for Junior Zookeeper Camp!

With more than 100 animals on site, the staff and volunteers at Noah’s Landing know how difficult it can be to balance the diets—and needs—of more than 60 species from around the globe.

There are fruit plates to make in the afternoons and habitats to clean in the morning. Volunteers have to remember which animals prefer bananas and which prefer Romaine lettuce. Plus, there are new habitats to construct and toys to make to keep the farm’s monkeys and lemur occupied.

So, this summer, we're inviting area kids to learn just what it takes for themselves during our summer “Junior Zookeeper Program,” a series of Saturday classes and day camps that teach kids how to care for our critters through guided volunteer time.

Each day also includes crafts, games, and classes that teach basic science skills. During an advanced class on insects, for instance, students dissect large grasshoppers to study insect anatomy. During a class on animal adaptations, they make giraffe spit, learn how blubber works, and experience life without opposable thumbs. Guest speakers also visit to share perspectives from their careers.

The Junior Zookeeper program runs throughout the summer and begins on June 14. Themed camp days are held on Saturdays and during two day camps in June and July and students can choose to come for a single day or for multiple days throughout the summer.

Regardless of how many days they choose, campers are invited to a family “induction” on June 14 where they can visit the farm and receive their camp T-shirts and a graduation ceremony at the end of the summer. After graduation, campers will be invited back to the farm for volunteer days and special events.

The program is targeted at students from 9-14 years old and includes two overnight campouts for older campers. Younger kids—from 6-8 years old—can participate in afternoon camp days as part of the “Junior Explorer Program.” Individual class days start at $50 but discounts are available for multiple days. Pre-registration is required and available throughout the summer.

For more information, interested families can visit: http://www.juniorzookeeper.com.